“Executive Departments & Cabinet” “Independent Agencies and Regulatory Commissions

Helping the President

Helping the President The “Executive Office of the President” (“EOP”) was created in 1939. This includes advisors, clerks, secretaries, and other specialists.

The “E.O.P” The “EOP” has approximately 2,000 employees and operates on a budget of over $100 million dollars per year.

The “E.O.P”

“White House Office” The “White House Office” has a staff of over 500 people who work directly for the president. It is lead by the “chief of staff.” It is also known as the “White House Staff.” This office determines who can see the president and reads most of the reports and letters sent to the president.

“Office of Management and Budget” (“OMB”) The “Office of Management and Budget” (“OMB”) prepares the budget and monitors hundreds of government agencies. The director reports directly to the president.

“National Security Council” (“NSC”) The “National Security Council” (“NSC”) helps the president coordinate military and foreign policy. This department is made up of : Vice President Secretary of State Secretary of Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

“National Security Council” (“NSC”) The “Joint Chiefs of Staff” is made up of the top commanders of each branch of the U.S. military.

“Office of Administration” The “Office of Administration” provides administrative services to all offices of the president. It deals with people requesting information under the “Freedom of Information” Act.

“Council of Economic Advisers” (“CEA”) The “Council of Economic Advisers” (“CEA”) helps the president carry out the role of economic leader.

“The Cabinet” The “Cabinet” is a group of advisors that include the heads of the 15 executive departments. Department of Homeland Security

“The Cabinet” The department heads carry the title of “secretary”. The only exception is the head of the Department of Justice, who is the Attorney General.

“The Cabinet” In 2002, the Department of Homeland Security became the newest department to consolidate our defenses against terrorist attacks.

“The Cabinet” The main responsibility of the Cabinet is to advise the president on issues related to their department. Although NOT mentioned in the Constitution, every president since Washington has had a Cabinet.

The Vice President Although the duties of the vice president are limited, presidents have given them more responsibilities through the years.

The “First Lady” The “First Lady” has no set responsibilities that are listed in the Constitution. However, they have been very active in different causes throughout the years.

The Federal Bureaucracy The Federal Bureaucracy is made up of the millions of employees and agencies that deal with the many different things that help our nation’s government run.

Independent Agencies “Executive Agencies” are independent agencies responsible for specialized areas. “NASA” is an example. Although not part of the president’s “cabinet,” these agencies are still accountable to the president.

Independent Agencies “Government Corporations” are run like private businesses, but they are NOT for profit. The U.S. Postal Service is an example.

Independent Agencies Regulatory Boards and Commissions do not report to the president, but can be impeached by Congress. Their task is to protect the public (like the “FCC”).